PORT Elizabeth soccer star Andisiwe Ndesi was disappointed at not making the cut after attending a national training camp recently, but said she had learnt a lot from the experience.
Ndesi, 27, attended a training camp of 26 players under Banyana Banyana coach Joseph Mkhonza, which formed part of the team's preparations for the African Women's Championship in Equatorial Guinea starting next weekend. She was among the six players left out of the squad which will travel to the African tournament.
"I was a bit disappointed to be cut off from the squad because I've worked hard at club level for my team to be selected for the national team," Ndesi said.
"But again I'm excited to attend the training because I've learnt a lot of productive soccer skills at the camp." The New Brighton-based City Lads' central midfielder said the training and the games presented at the camp were similar to their club's methods.
She added, though, that it was difficult to compete against the regular Banyana Banyana players who played much more cohesive soccer during the practice sessions.
"The first day's training session was tough because I was new and I didn't know anyone but by the next part was more relaxed and I was able to communicate with other players," Ndesi said.
"I was not under any pressure and all the players were friendly and courageous."
Ndesi played for the University Sports South Africa team in 2005 when she was a sport management student at the Walter Sisulu University.
"At my age, I still believe I've got what it takes to be selected in the senior national team and I'll be ready for that moment."
Ndesi will rejoin City Lads when the provincial Sasol league resumes.
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